Creamy Malabon Pasta

In a large pot over medium heat, boil pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Strain pasta and run through cold water. Set aside pasta water.

Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry the pork belly until it renders it’s oils and turns crispy then set aside pork on a plate. In the same pan, heat and fry the tofu until crispy then set aside tofu.

Sauté the garlic and onions, squid, and peeled shrimp, until cooked and set aside.

Saute the shrimp head and shells in the pan together with the atsuete seeds. Add pasta water and bring to a boil over medium heat for 15 minutes, crushing the heads to extract flavor.

Strain out shells and seeds.

Add in the mussels and cook until shells open, simmer to reduce the sauce. Pour back cooked pork, tofu, shrimps, and squid rings, season with patis and pour over the cream and let simmer for another 5 minutes before tossing in the cooked pasta.

Serve pasta and top with spring onions, chicharron, and hard-boiled egg. Remove from heat and season with calamansi juice, salt, and pepper as necessary.